A former lawyer from Kamloops, British Columbia, has confessed to killing his client, but his defense team argues that the act was not premeditated and the trial evidence does not support a first-degree murder charge. Rogelio (Butch) Bagabuyo stands accused of the murder of Mohd Abdullah in 2022.
During the trial at the British Columbia Supreme Court, it was revealed that Abdullah had hired Bagabuyo in 2016, and the two had collaborated to conceal significant amounts of money during Abdullah’s divorce proceedings. Over a span of seven years, Bagabuyo reportedly spent over $780,000 that had been transferred to him by Abdullah.
Bagabuyo’s lawyer, Mark Swartz, asserted in his closing statements that the killing was a result of a sudden confrontation on March 11, 2022, where Bagabuyo confessed to Abdullah that the money was no longer available, leading to a fatal struggle. Swartz argued that Abdullah had not threatened Bagabuyo prior to this incident, emphasizing the emotional turmoil Abdullah must have experienced due to his life savings being in Bagabuyo’s possession.
Swartz contended that the murder was unplanned, highlighting Bagabuyo’s actions post the incident, such as seeking assistance to dispose of the body. Despite the Crown’s claim that Bagabuyo had meticulously orchestrated the murder, Swartz pointed out that certain purchases, like a hacksaw, were made after the event, suggesting a lack of premeditation.
The defense also challenged the Crown’s assertions regarding a “planning note” and the acquisition of a large tote before the murder, arguing that these actions were not indicative of a preconceived murder plot. Swartz maintained that Bagabuyo had bought the tote for office use and the note was a hasty reminder for disposing of the body, not part of a murder plan.
Regarding the disposal of the body, the defense disputed the use of a garrote, stating that it was not employed in the offense. Swartz suggested that the garrote could have been utilized post the murder to handle the body, rather than being a premeditated tool for the crime.
The Crown alleged that a law office was an ideal setting for the murder, citing specific conditions for police searches of such premises. However, Swartz countered by highlighting the ongoing restoration of the building and the presence of contractors, which could have compromised any alleged advantage. He also pointed out that Bagabuyo had access to building codes and could have chosen a different location if the murder had been planned.
Bagabuyo had initially faced charges related to indignity to human remains before being charged with first-degree murder over a year later. He has been on bail since July 12, 2023, with final arguments set for Thursday.
